Khaw Boon Wan, the National Development Minister of Singapore has said in a reply to a query in the Parliament that more Housing Board (HDB) flats in the country are being built for singles.

Mr Khaw said that the number has been increased a bit to cater to the singles. He said that the National Development Ministery is still determining the exact number of flats to set aside for singles in the country. According to current regulations, singles can purchase only resale HDB flats and they are required to be above the age of 35 years.

He had earlier indicated that even if singles are allowed to buy houses, rules would remain the same. Singles will have be above the age of 35 years and will not be allowed to sublet them. Single buyers will only be able to buy smaller BTO plats.

Mr Khaw added that the ministry officials will gather views and suggestions over eh matter and release more details in the coming year. He informed the parliament that the number of new flats each year has been meeting the demands of new families. He said that the supply was able to match the 15,000 marriages involving Singapore citizens a year.